This bill mandates that Medicaid provide coverage for community violence prevention services for individuals who have received medical treatment for injuries resulting from community violence and have been referred by a certified or licensed healthcare provider or social services provider. It defines "community violence" as intentional acts of physical force against individuals in public areas, excluding family members or intimate partners. The bill establishes the role of certified violence prevention professionals, who must complete an accredited training and certification program approved by the Department of Health, consisting of at least 35 hours of initial training and six hours of continuing education every two years. It also stipulates that no individual may use the title "certified violence prevention professional" unless they have completed the required certification.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing Medicaid provisions to include community violence prevention services as part of the medical assistance program, outlining the types of services that may be provided, such as peer support, mentorship, conflict mediation, and crisis intervention. It ensures that payments for these services will be made in full to providers, prohibiting any additional charges to recipients or their families. The bill requires the Commissioners of Human Services and Health to adopt rules and regulations for its implementation and takes effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-6